Re: Spring 2014 | Page 109

business Leap into programme… I would highly recommend LEAP for anyone in Lewes District that is looking to develop their business idea.” The second programme has recently launched, with five training workshops being delivered by Lets Do Business Group – one of LEAP’s partners – at the offices of Mayo Wynne Baxter in Lewes. The first of these workshops was held on 14th January. Councillor Rob Blackman, Lead Member for Business, Economic Development and Tourism at Lewes District Council provided a welcome to the new candidates and gave a galvanising talk to the 15 aspiring entrepreneurs ahead of the training commencing. The second programme will conclude with the LEAP Entrepreneur of the Year 2014 event, which is being held in April in tandem with the new Lewes District Business Awards. The LEAP initiative set up by Lewes District Council is supporting local entrepreneurs seeking to start their own businesses in difficult economic conditions. The Local Enterprise and Apprenticeship Platform (LEAP) was launched by the District Council in February 2013. The purpose of the initiative is to promote employment and skills development opportunities and foster the entrepreneurial spirit of local residents. The LEAP Entrepreneur programme offers you the chance to win £3,000 to help get your business off the ground. The scheme offers a programme of free training workshops, professional 1:1 mentoring and support, culminating in a judging panel of local business leaders to identify the LEAP Entrepreneur of the Year. The programme seeks to help local people with a business idea or fledgling start-up business to develop their concept into a viable and sustainable business. The first LEAP awards was held in October 2013, and resulted in Equine Elite being crowned as the first ever LEAP Entrepreneur of the Year. The brains behind the business, Sarah Huntley, said “LEAP has been a superb scheme for me, and the coaching I have received has been invaluable. I have learnt how to write a business plan, complete financial forecasts, and many other vital business skills. I have gained an incredible amount from experts across a range of fields who generously gave up their time to present to the Wes Game, Business Manager at Lets Do Business Group said “LEAP is a fantastic opportunity for local entrepreneurs to benefit from a tailored training programme to ensure you are ready to start a business in a difficult economic climate. I would urge local people to get in touch and see how LEAP could help you make your dream a reality”. If you have an idea that you are keen to develop into a viable business, then please do get in touch with the LEAP team as there will be more opportunities emerging later in the year. More information is available from the LEAP team through their website at yourleap.co.uk or by phone on 0300 330 1450. By Jason Edge 107